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Hiding veins
Hi Choijk,
Perhaps your father could have a port-a-cath?
A port-a-cath (port) is an implanted device through which RBC:s may be infused and blood may be withdrawn without repeated needle sticks. The port is inserted in his upper chest wall. It is about the size of a quarter, only thicker, and will show only as a bump underneath the skin. There are several benefits to having a port:
No need to find a vein every time he receives a transfusion. A special needle fits right into the port, so all he feels is the stick—not the poking, prodding, and false tries in his arm.
Getting blood for blood tests can usually be done through the port, decreasing the number of times he needs to have a vein "stuck
Kind regards
Birgitta
68 yo, MDS interm-1 dx May 2006, transfusion dependent, Desferal 4 days/month, port-a-cath since Jan 2007, Neupogen injections 2 days/week, Prednisolone 2,5 mg/day
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